Mayor Walsh Quarantines After Potential COVID-19 Exposure

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh began a 14-day quarantine Friday after learning a city employee with whom he had contact has tested positive for COVID-19.

Walsh is considered an essential employee and will continue his duties while quarantined. The Mayor is experiencing no symptoms and will be tested for COVID-19 next week. His quarantine is scheduled to end on Nov. 19.

“I wear a mask whenever I’m in the presence of others and so do the people around me. The situation is a reminder to everyone that COVID-19 cases are increasing in the region and country. We all must take the right precautions — wear masks, keep social distancing, wash hands frequently and get tested. And if you are required to quarantine, do your part and take it seriously,” Walsh said.

Consistent with health privacy requirements, the City is not releasing the identity of the employee who tested positive.